MENU
SEARCHI was honored to be asked to judge Nailympia USA for its debut at Premiere Orlando.
NTNA Top 12 competitor Jerilee Fair traveled from New Zealand to compete in Nailympia, where she won two medals.
The other judges and I taking our jobs very seriously.
The scene from Nailympia on the Orlando show floor.
I was honored to be asked to judge Nailympia USA for its debut at Premiere Orlando. I have long admired the competitors, organizers, and judges of this global nail competition and the standard it sets within our industry. Here’s what I learned from my first stint as a Nailympia judge:
• Judge Vitaly Solomonoff gave me this piece of advice: “Leave your emotions at the door,” which I think is helpful for anyone judging or putting their work out there.
• The focus of a judge in Nailympia is on a particular aspect of the overall nail. The narrow focus allows judges to really home in and contribute to only part of a score. This system took the pressure off me, so I never felt like my numbers were making or breaking a competitor.
• A perfect 10 is hard to achieve. As in NTNA, the perfect score is elusive, and with good reason. A 10 is what all should strive for and shouldn’t be given freely.
• Secrecy is key. The anonymity of the judges behind the curtain combined with the lengths that are gone to not to show anyone the final rankings ensure a completely fair competition.
• Different judges handle different kinds of categories. I personally opted to judge a nail art category, as that’s what I usually judge within our offices and for NTNA. When I looked at my fellow judges for this category, everyone was equally or more qualified in this area, meaning contestants were given quality, unrivaled feedback on their work.
• The rules are precise and well-explained. I can’t tell you how happy I was to find a rules-and-regulations handbook right next to my seat. This handbook explained every detail of each category and judging segment, so nothing was unclear.
• Competing boosts confidence. My favorite part of this experience was watching the competitors take the stage. With multiple divisions and places, some competitors managed to walk away with stacks of medals or major goods from sponsors. Some Nailympians travel from all over, some are repeat competitors, and others send their work in, but all walk away with an air of confidence that’s unbeatable. Trust me, as I got to read the winners’ names onstage and witness the reactions firsthand.
As someone who does not do nails, I can sometimes feel self-conscious about critiquing a nail professional’s work. However, the team behind Nailympia exudes the utmost passion for nails. That common bond is enough to boost anyone’s spirits and possibly their career. I can’t encourage you enough to consider entering this competition and receiving feedback from the top names in the nail world.
My sincerest thanks to Alex Fox, who runs this competition and cares so deeply for everyone involved. Thank you to head judge Elaine Watson, who gave me the opportunity to see the reactions firsthand of those who took to the stage. Thank you to all who competed — you are all champions to me.
Want to compete?
Apply for NAILS Next Top Nail Artist Season 7 here.
Square data shows that regular customers tip 11% higher and are shared across 32% of businesses in the same ZIP code, driving thousands of dollars in additional revenue per connection.
When Bowie Lau and Jeffrey Ching opened JBW Jeffrey Ching Salon in 2011, they weren’t just launching another luxury hair destination—they were building a business rooted in passion, artistry, and thoughtful growth.
Sponsored by Amex
Inside the Systems That Power an Elevated Salon Experience From seamless online booking to a team-first culture, J Gold Salon in Atlanta offers more than great hair—it delivers consistent, high-touch service with the help of partners like Boulevard and American Express.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to grow your career as a beauty professional? K18 Sales Manager Sabrina Sanborn shares advice on networking, mentorship, and self-advocacy—from attending hair shows to finding the right guidance to reach your goals.
A combination of clear policies, effective communication, and strong client relationships has helped me create a more reliable and efficient booking system.
Founded by Cleveland serial entrepreneur Shaura Rodgers, Nailtorious has grown to include a nail supply megastore, training facilities, and retail line for nail techs.
This period after the holidays can bring on a huge lull for hairstylists. We asked Cosmo Prof's team of professionals to offer their best advice on how to deal with the January-February slow period.
Key highlights include a push toward inclusive spaces for all abilities, an emphasis on maximizing livable square footage, and a continued love for modern farmhouse exteriors.
The busy holiday season is here, and with it comes jam-packed days, last-minute client requests and booming retail sales. For many salon owners, the highlight of the season is Small Business Saturday® (SBS). This year on Saturday, November 30, consumers can take their shopping into the small businesses in their communities.
Sponsored by Amex
Want to become savvy about your personal finances, but don't quite know where to start? Anna Manukyan identifies six important concepts for building a strong financial foundation.
Salon owner Nuri Yurt had a dream of owning a salon on New York City’s Madison Avenue. "Through perseverance, hard work and stellar customer service, he and partner John Kaygisiz founded Toka Salon in 2007.
Sponsored by Amex
This guide is your one-stop shop for a plethora of technology tools, software and services created to keep your salon or spa thriving.
Anna Manukyan shares a breakdown of what different types of financial accounts should be used for.
Vagaro has consistently been at the forefront of salon software technology, helping businesses be more efficient, create more effective communication, and even improve company culture. Now, Connect by Vagaro, the platform’s two-way communication capability, and Vagaro’s new generative AI tools are giving owners new opportunities to grow and expand.
Sponsored by Vagaro
Young Nails' Greg, Habib, and Tracey discuss whether getting too close to clients can damage your business.
This list of watch-outs from @jodydoesjels prompted us to reach out to her and learn more. We had already fallen for her hand-painted designs and now we wanted to know more about this list she created to help clients decide if she was the nail tech for them.
Education is necessary for beauty professionals to maintain their cosmetology licenses, and paying for that education can be burdensome, but it doesn't have to be. Understand which education tax credits can help you offset those costs.
